Since 2009, European Best Destinations have run an annual competition for travellers to vote for their favourite country. This culminates in a top 20 bucket list designed to inspire, with the 2025 list released last month!
This year, the top 20 countries have been selected based on categories like ‘quality of life, sustainable development, and all-year round cultural offer’. The Globus family of brands visits nine of the twenty countries on this year’s list, so here are some of Europe’s best destinations for 2025 that you can discover on a coach tour and/or river cruise.
#1 – Monaco
Despite being the smallest independent state in the world, Monaco is known for its glitz and glam. You don’t need to pay income tax while living here unless you’re a French citizen, so Monaco has earnt itself the nickname, ‘a billionaire’s playground’. It is home to sporting royalty like Novak Djokovic and Lewis Hamilton, as well as actual royalty – the Grimaldi family (Monaco’s royal family for over 800 years). Its location means it has a mild Mediterranean climate year-round, so it’s easy to see why Monaco has topped the list of Europe’s best destinations for 2025.
#3 – Dubrovnik, Croatia
Coming in at #3, Dubrovnik has something for all tastes, budgets and interests. Get your steps up by exploring the pedestrian-only, UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town; beach hop from Lokrum Island to a secluded cove; pretend like you’re in King’s Landing of Game of Thrones fame; and indulge in some of Croatia’s local specialties like black risotto and Ćevapi sausages.
#4 – Madrid, Spain
For the art lovers, you can’t look past Madrid. This Spanish city is jam-packed with everything from historic to modern art, making it a true hot spot in Europe. Take your pick from over 100 museums and art galleries to see one of Europe’s finest collections of Spanish and Latin American art. To start, tick off what is known as the Golden Triangle of Art – the Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum – and wile away your time standing in awe in front of Picasso and Dalí masterpieces.
#6 – Amsterdam, the Netherlands
There is no other city in the world where public transport includes canal rides and so many bicycles! These are integral to Amsterdam, with its canals designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its streets seeing over 800,000 bicycles. Use these fun modes of transport to explore Amsterdam’s unique neighbourhoods. Perhaps multicultural De Pijp for the Albert Cuyp flower market or the bohemian Jordaan district filled with art galleries, cafes and boutique shops. It’s even worth seeing the Red Light district to further understand Amsterdam’s liberal stance.
#9 – Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is built on seven hills above the Tagus River, so you’ll experience varying degrees of incline as you roam through this European gem. But never fear! You won’t have to be on your feet for the entirety of your trip. The tram system is a fun way to see the city’s charming streets and colourful buildings, especially the #28 line which traces a popular route through the Graça, Alfama and Baixa neighbourhoods. There are also several funicular and elevators that will save your legs a few hilly climbs.
#12 – Bath, England
It’s fascinating to learn that Bath has been a wellbeing destination since the Roman times! Trace history from its ancient Roman Baths to the modern-day Thermae Bath Spa (the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain). We adore everything about this cosy city – from its muted yellow Georgian architecture to its tasty Sally Lunn buns!
#14 – Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a major player in some of Europe’s best, and biggest, history. It is the only city in the world that straddles two countries (Asia and Europe), and this location has given it the crowning glory of the capital of four empires – Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman. All these factors have woven themselves into one of Europe’s best destinations, and its landmarks, cuisine and history are second to none. Authors like Paul Theroux and Ernest Hemingway have said to have been inspired by Istanbul, and we’re sure you will be, too, when you visit.
#18 – Cassis, France
For a taste of a quintessential French town, look no further than Cassis. Found only 30 minutes’ drive from Marseille, in the heart of the Provence region, we guarantee you’ll fall in love as soon as you step foot in front of one of its traditional Provençal houses. Once you’ve had your fill of these pastel beauties, you can hike, kayak or swim in the lush National Park. Finally, enjoy a relaxed meal that showcases the Provençal cuisine with food like zucchini flowers, bouillabaisse and tapenade. Bon appetit!
#19 – Seville, Spain
Seville is the beating heart of the Andalusia region in Spain, so we’re glad to see it made it to the top 20 of this list! Seville can suit all budgets and tastes; from a refreshing drink at the elegant Hotel Alfonso XIII (regarded as the most luxurious hotel in Europe when it was built in 1928) to bar hopping to eat your fill of tapas like croquetas and pescado frito (fried fish). Top off your trip with a flamenco show, ogling over and purchasing several beautiful ceramic tiles, and people-watching in Plaza de España.
Book your dream tour with Globus or Cosmos, or a river cruise with Avalon Waterways, and discover some of Europe’s best destinations for 2025.
